A Northern Mockingbird’s Feeder Takeover

Back in November, I shared a post about the Territorial Antics of Northern Mockingbirds at My Birdbath. In that post, I described how one Mockingbird relentlessly chased another, asserting dominance over the birdbath. At the time, it was one Mockingbird chasing off another, which was entertaining to watch. But this week, things escalated.

Mockingbird on the Offensive

For the past several days, one aggressive Northern Mockingbird has decided the feeders in my yard belong to it. Almost every bird that comes in gets a quick, aggressive response. The Mockingbird darts out like a missile, wings flapping sharply, and lets out a harsh, sharp call as it charges straight toward the intruder. As soon as they approach the feeders, this Mockingbird flies straight at them, chasing them from the area.

Here’s a list of the birds it’s been targeting, most of which are regular visitors to my feeders, likely because they rely heavily on seeds and suet this time of year:

• Eastern Bluebirds
• Northern Cardinals
• Dark-eyed Juncos
• Downy Woodpeckers
• White-throated Sparrows
• Tufted Titmice
• House Finches

Strangely enough, the Mockingbird only eats the suet, likely because it is a high-energy food source that meets its nutritional needs during cooler weather. It doesn’t bother with the seeds at all but still chases every bird that tries to feed, even those on the ground.

Birds That Stand Their Ground

However, there are two birds this Mockingbird avoids entirely: Carolina Chickadees and Carolina Wrens. It seems like even this dominant Mockingbird knows not to mess with them. Carolina Wrens, especially, can hold their own, and I doubt many birds are brave enough to challenge them.

Non-stop Drama at the Feeders

Watching all this unfold has been fascinating. I’ve been photographing from my deck, and the drama has been non-stop. The Mockingbird barely gets a break, constantly swooping and chasing. For a bird so busy, it’s clear it’s not willing to share its territory.

Take a look at the photo I captured of this Northern Mockingbird. Its upright posture and piercing gaze perfectly capture its bold, defiant personality. Doesn’t it feel like its personality comes through? There’s a defiant, no-nonsense look in its eye – a perfect reflection of its behavior at the feeders.

The Story Behind the Lens

This bird is proof that there’s never a dull moment in wildlife photography. Even when the subjects are common birds in my own backyard, there’s always a story to tell.